Scarlet Pimpernel Returns to Stage

Predecessor to heroes from Zorro to Batman, that dashing, disguised saviour with a wonderfully entertaining – and seemingly indolent – secret identity, The Scarlet Pimpernel has long been a favourite of mine. I’ve read the original novel (and more, if I recall correctly) and on screen I’ve enjoyed the performances of Anthony Andrews (with Jane Seymour), Richard E. Grant (with Elizabeth McGovern) and the wonderful Leslie Howard, who played both The Scarlet Pimpernel and ‘Pimpernel’ Smith, the latter set in WWII.

Have you seen any of these? If so, which was your favourite? Comment below…

Now – to the stage! Thanks to a new play, I found out that Baroness Orczy’s Scarlet Pimpernel actually appeared on stage (1903) well before the first novel was published (1905).

The Scarlet Pimpernel is returning to the stage in a play by Helen Bang, directed by Jennifer Dick.

I was delighted to read the script a few years ago in its development period and have followed its progress since. You can now follow along online with Helen’s blog and the Pimpernel Productions website.

Check out the wit Helen is infusing the play with, and sense her joy in working with this special time and hero…

https://fellowshipandfairydust.com/2018/05/28/the-scarlet-pimpernel-the-original-superhero-returns-to-the-stage-in-a-rip-roaring-new-adaptation/

See the wonderful costume designs by Carys Hobbs and help The Scarlet Pimpernel buckle his swash across the stage:

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/helenbang/the-scarlet-pimpernel-the-original-superhero-on-st#

Here’s to a rip-roaring, rabble-rousing, rotters-roasting return!